Antonio Conte has claimed Scott McTominay's successful first season is costing him as he tries to replicate his form this term. The Napoli manager believes that McTominay is facing greater obstacles as opposition sides attempt to contain him.

The 28-year-old enjoyed an incredible first season, helping Napoli to a Serie A titleand being named the division's most valuable player. McTominay scored six goals and added two assists in seven matches to claim the title at the end of last season, notching 13 goals in all.

This year has not been quite so straightforward. The Scotland star scored on the opening day of the season but has not found the net since, while new team-mates Rasmus Hojlund and Kevin De Bruyne find their feet.

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McTominay, who has predominantly been used off the left by Conte in 2025/26, has still started every game. The Italian coach is clearly impressed with what he has seen.

Conte is not too concerned about his charge's form. The former Chelsea and Tottenham coach simply puts it down to receiving a great deal more attention on the pitch after last season's exploits.

"It’s very simple, his status has changed,” Conte said in a press conference, via TuttoNapoli. "He was the best player in the league last season.

"When he arrived, he wasn’t being used much at Manchester United. He came in as an underdog with something to prove. Now his status is different and the attention he receives, even from opponents preparing to face him, is completely different.

"He’s seen in a new light now. It’s as simple as that. Last year, he adapted to everything, playing with two strikers, 4-3-3, but now opponents look at him differently, and naturally, they make tactical adjustments to contain him."

McTominay's international team-mate, Billy Gilmour has not found minutes quite as forthcoming. But Conte offered a vote of confidence to the midfielder.

“I have total confidence in the boy," he said. "Whenever he’s been called upon, he’s always stepped up, including at the end of last season.

"His skill sets perfectly match those of Lobotka, which is exactly why we signed him. There wasn’t really a proper backup for Lobotka; finding another like him is very difficult. The others have different qualities; they are not natural playmakers, so, if needed, we’d have to adapt someone else. Hopefully, it won’t come to that.”

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